This is a Corsican, brother. A blend of Niellucio, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet (and I'm assuming that's Sauvignon) according to the back label that comes in at 12.5%. Imported by Grape Expectations, $6 or so. As is the norm here, we've shied away from 2003 European wines, but I figured I could give Corsica a shot. Particularly given that it didn't cost all that much more than a venti Caramel Frappucino.
Fairly dark garnet in the glass. Shy nose of dusty spice. Initially, it comes off a bit watery in the mid-palate, but it fills out with some air time. After an hour or two, it's a wine that has a spicy Italian feel to it, some earthiness, with ripe black fruit in the background. Finishes with the dark fruit and some furry tannins. After sitting on the counter with a cork in it overnight, it continues to show pretty well. The dark fruit dries out a bit and the tannins begin to get a little furrier (furry-er?), but there's no evident oxidation.
Overall, a very good everyday wine at a very low price. Good QPR.
Mike